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Germany vs Spain passport photo — full spec comparison
Side-by-side comparison of passport photo requirements for Germany and Spain, sourced from each issuing authority.
In short
Germany requires 35 × 45 mm while Spain requires 26 × 32 mm. The two specifications are NOT interchangeable — a photo accepted for one will be rejected by the other.
Can you use the same photo for both?
No — the print sizes differ. Germany requires 35 × 45 mm, while Spain requires 26 × 32 mm, so one print cannot satisfy both specifications. You will need a separate photo set for each document.
Specification table
Every value in this table is taken from the official publications of the two issuing authorities. Open either country page for the full rule set, the printable layout and the source links.
| Attribute | Germany | Spain |
|---|---|---|
| Photo size | 35 × 45 mm | 26 × 32 mm |
| Head height | 71–80% (32–36 mm) | 60–75% |
| Background | Plain light background. | Uniform white background. |
| Glasses | Eyes must be fully visible; no tinting or reflections. | No dark glasses or objects obstructing identification. |
| Expression | Neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open. | Neutral expression, mouth closed, eyes open. |
| Head covering | Religious reasons only; must not cover the facial oval. | Religious reasons only; must not cover the facial oval. |
| Pose | Full face, head centred, no tilt or rotation. | Full face, open and clearly identifiable. |
| Lighting / shadows | No shadows or uneven lighting. | Shadows, overexposure, and reflections not permitted. |
| Attire | Neutral clothing; face and shoulder line must be distinguishable from the background. | The facial oval, including eyebrows, eyes, nose, mouth, and chin, must be clearly visible. |
| Authority | Federal Foreign Office of Germany | Ministerio del Interior / Policía Nacional |
| Verification | Official — exact | Official — exact |
| Last verified | 2026-05-21 | 2026-05-21 |
Read each rule set in full
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the same photo for Germany and Spain?
No — the print sizes differ. Germany requires 35 × 45 mm, while Spain requires 26 × 32 mm, so one print cannot satisfy both specifications. You will need a separate photo set for each document.
Which photo is larger — Germany or Spain?
Germany uses the larger photo: 35 × 45 mm versus 26 × 32 mm for Spain.
What background colour do Germany and Spain require?
Germany requires: Plain light. Spain requires: White.